In a new study published online on August 29, 2016 in Ophthalmology, researchers wrote that, using primates as subjects, they successfully tested a contact lens that slowly releases medication (latanoprost) into the eye, and proved as effective as latanoprost drops in reducing IOP.

The novel design uses a polymer film around the periphery of the lens to house the drug, and release it more slowly.

Clinical trials testing the safety and effectiveness of the contacts lenses in humans are planned.

While the study concluded that more research is needed to determine the optimal continuous-release dose that would be well tolerated and maximally effective, the study demonstrated that contact lens drug delivery may be a viable option for the treatment of glaucoma and platform for ocular drug delivery.